How to connect AirPods to Android
Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting
7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025
Quick Answer
Connecting AirPods to an Android device is a straightforward process that involves enabling Bluetooth on your Android device and pairing the AirPods. Once paired, you can enjoy audio playback and calls through your AirPods.
Easy⏱ 7-10 min read
Prerequisites & Requirements
Before connecting your AirPods to an Android device, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- •Android device running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later.
- •AirPods (1st, 2nd generation, or Pro) with sufficient battery life.
- •Bluetooth functionality enabled on the Android device.
- •No other devices currently connected to the AirPods.
Method 1: Standard Bluetooth Pairing
This is the primary method for connecting AirPods to Android devices and should work for most users.
- •Step 1: Open the lid of your AirPods case without removing the AirPods.
- •Step 2: Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the LED indicator starts flashing white.
- •Step 3: On your Android device, go to 'Settings' > 'Connections' > 'Bluetooth'.
- •Step 4: Ensure Bluetooth is turned on. Wait for your AirPods to appear in the list of available devices.
- •Step 5: Tap on 'AirPods' to connect. You should see a message indicating that the devices are connected.
- •Step 6: To verify, play audio and check if the sound is coming through the AirPods.
- •Step 7: If it doesn't work, try restarting your Android device and repeat the steps.
For Windows 11
Connecting AirPods to Windows 11 is similar to Android but involves different settings.
- •Step 1: Open the AirPods case and hold the setup button until the LED flashes white.
- •Step 2: Click on the 'Start' button, then select 'Settings'.
- •Step 3: Go to 'Devices' > 'Bluetooth & other devices'.
- •Step 4: Click on 'Add Bluetooth or other device', then select 'Bluetooth'.
- •Step 5: Choose 'AirPods' from the list and click 'Connect'.
For Windows 10
The process is similar but may have slight variations in the interface.
- •Step 1: Open the AirPods case and hold the setup button until the LED flashes white.
- •Step 2: Click on the 'Start' button, then select 'Settings'.
- •Step 3: Go to 'Devices' > 'Bluetooth & other devices'.
- •Step 4: Click on 'Add Bluetooth or other device', then select 'Bluetooth'.
- •Step 5: Choose 'AirPods' from the list and click 'Connect'.
Method 2: Using the AirPods Case
This method is useful if you encounter issues with the standard pairing process.
- •Step 1: Make sure your AirPods are in the charging case and the lid is open.
- •Step 2: Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the LED indicator flashes white.
- •Step 3: On your Android device, navigate to 'Settings' > 'Connections' > 'Bluetooth'.
- •Step 4: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled and wait for your AirPods to appear in the list.
- •Step 5: Tap 'AirPods' to connect and confirm the connection.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter issues while connecting your AirPods to an Android device, consider the following solutions:
- •Error: 'AirPods not found' - Solution: Ensure the AirPods are in pairing mode (LED flashing white) and try again.
- •Issue: 'Audio not playing through AirPods' - Fix: Check if the AirPods are selected as the audio output in Bluetooth settings.
- •Problem: 'Connection drops frequently' - Workaround: Reset your AirPods by holding the setup button until the LED flashes amber, then white again.
Advanced Tips & Shortcuts
Enhance your experience with these tips:
- •Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + Shift + B' - Refresh Bluetooth devices on Windows.
- •Command line: 'adb devices' - List connected Bluetooth devices on Android.
- •Hidden feature: 'Automatic switching' - Available on iOS devices, but not on Android; consider using a third-party app for similar functionality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls:
Expert Tips
For the best experience, ensure your AirPods firmware is up to date and your Android device supports the latest Bluetooth standards.